The iconic Renault Duster SUV brand is all set return to the Indian market, after the first-gen model was discontinued in early 2022. The carmaker has skipped the SUV’s second-generation for India, and decided to bring in its third-generation model with significant design changes, along with feature and mechanical upgrades. Here, we have addressed all your questions related to the upcoming new Renault Duster SUV.
It’s important to note that all details mentioned here are based on the media reports, and official specifications, features and pricing will be confirmed closer to its launch.
When is the new-gen Renault Duster expected to launch in India?
The French automaker has confirmed that the all-new Duster will hit Indian roads in 2026. However, its exact launch date is yet to be announced.
What will be the expected price of the new Renault Duster in India?
Prices of the new Duster SUV are expected to start around Rs 10 lakh for the base variant, and go up to Rs 15 lakh for the fully-loaded top variant.
Will there be a 7-seater version of the new Renault Duster?
Yes. Renault India has confirmed a new three-row SUV, which will be based on the new Duster. This 7-seater SUV will share its platform, features and powertrains with its 5-seater sibling. However, some of its design bits will be inspired by the Dacia Bigster SUV. The 7-seater Renault Duster is expected to arrive in 2026, after the 5-seater counterpart.
What engine options will the new-gen Renault Duster offer?
As per media report, the all-new Duster is likely to come with two turbocharged petrol engine options – a 1.0L (borrowed from the Kiger) and a 1.3L (sourced from the global-spec Kicks). The 1.0L petrol engine could be tuned for higher power in the new Duster, and could be reserved for the lower variants.
Will the new Renault Duster come with a diesel engine?
Renault has no plan to reintroduce diesel engines for the new Duster in the country. In global markets, the SUV is offered with the LPG-compatible variants.
Will the new Duster be offered with a hybrid or strong-hybrid powertrain?
Media reports hint that a hybrid variant of the SUV is also under consideration for India. If introduced, the Duster hybrid could get a 1.6L petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined power output of 140bhp.
Will the 2026 Renault Duster offer AWD or 4×4 capability?
Globally, the new Duster is available with the AWD (all-wheel drive) system, paired with a 1.2L turbo petrol engine. As for the Indian market, there is no official confirmation on whether this AWD version will be offered. Considering the cost, the carmaker might restrict it to a FWD (front-wheel drive) configuration.
Will the new Duster be available with a CVT or DCT automatic transmission?
In India, the new Duster will come with both manual and automatic gearbox options. Reports suggest that the select variants of the SUV could be offered with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) unit.
What safety features will the new Renault Duster offer?
This new Renault SUV could be offered with several advanced safety fitments such as multiple airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, rear parking camera with sensors, hill start assist, hill descent control, and more. A major safety upgrade might come in the form of ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) suite offering features such as automatic emergency braking with detection systems for vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and motorcycles, lane change warning and assist, traffic sign recognition with speed alerts and more.
What interior features are expected in the 2026 Renault Duster?
The official feature list of the new Duster is yet to be revealed. However, it’s certain that the SUV will have a more upmarket interior than its previous generation. Expected features include:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- 6-speaker Arkamys 3D sound system
- 7-inch digital driver’s display
- Automatic climate control
- Wireless phone charging
- Ventilated front seats
- Cruise control
- Two USB-C ports
Will the new Duster come with a panoramic sunroof?
As of now, there is no clarity whether this feature will make to the India-spec model. In fact, the globally Duster currently does not offer a panoramic sunroof.
What are the key design changes in the new Renault Duster?
The third-generation Duster will look completely different from its previous-gen model, while still retaining the original silhouette and some signature design elements. Here are all expected design changes:
- Slim Y-shaped LED DRLs
- Signature grille with ‘Renault’ badging
- Squared-off wheel arches
- Pronounced side cladding
- Dual-tone alloy wheels
- Roof rails
- V-shaped LED taillamps with Y-shaped signature
- Roof mounted rear spoiler
How does the size of the new-gen Duster compare to current compact SUVs?
Compared to most of its rivals, the new Duster will be slightly longer and wider. As per media reports, the SUV will measure 4,343mm in length, 1,813mm in width and 1,661mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,657mm.
What is the expected mileage of the new Renault Duster?
As the engine options are revealed yet, it would not be difficult to comment on its fuel efficiency. However, the global-spec Duster offers a mileage between 15kmpl – 18kmpl, depending on the engine and configuration.
Which SUVs will the new Renault Duster compete with in India?
In the midsize SUV segment, the all-new Duster will take on the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hydyrder Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun.